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In the face of harrowing fires currently engulfing Los Angeles, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have issued a heartfelt plea to the public, urging support for the victims of the catastrophic wildfires that have destroyed neighbourhoods and displaced tens of thousands.
“In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighbourhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more—affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life,” The Duke and Duchess of Sussex wrote in a statement.
As their sprawling Montecito home is in a high-risk fire zone, it’s unclear whether the couple has been urged to evacuate their family.
Marking the severity of the situation, they reminded the public that a state of emergency had been declared and shared resources for those compelled to help. Among the organisations highlighted were José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen and the Sussexes’ own Archewell Foundation—both of which provide meals to first responders and victims.
The couple’s appeal extended beyond immediate humanitarian aid. They highlighted the tireless efforts of CAL FIRE and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and noted that these teams are at the forefront of this crisis, risking their lives to protect their communities.
They also highlighted the role of groups like the Animal Wellness Foundation and the Compton Cowboys, which work to evacuate and safeguard animals caught in harm’s way.
As noted in their statement, initiatives such as Airbnb and 211LA are offering temporary housing to evacuees, while Baby2Baby is distributing essential supplies, including diapers, hygiene products, and emergency kits, to families with young children. Local efforts like All Power Books were also promoted to provide water and necessities to those in need.
“If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you can offer them a safe haven in your home, please do,” they urged, encouraging people to extend kindness to vulnerable neighbours, particularly the elderly and disabled, during these perilous times.
Their message culminated in a poignant call for generosity: “Some families and people have been left with nothing,” they wrote. Meghan, 43, and Prince Harry, 40, then implored those who could donate clothing, toys, and essentials, with the American Red Cross mobilised on the ground to support victims of the tragedy.
The fires, which ignited earlier this week, have claimed at least five lives and left thousands of homes in ashes, including that of Leighton Meester and Adam Brody, Paris Hilton, Eugene Levy and Billy Crystal. Communities across the Pacific Palisades and other densely populated areas continue to grapple with the scale of the destruction while the infernos rage on.
For further resources on how to help people and organisations tackle fires and aid victims, read on.
California Fire Foundation Wildfire and Disaster Relief Fund is working to support the impacted residents.
Lagartijas Climbing Crú, a local BIPOC climbing club, has created a Google spreadsheet people can sign up for that connects fire victims with people who want to donate gear such as sleeping bags, clothes, and meals.
Direct Relief, a California-based disaster relief medical assistance organisation, is working with the two Koreatown YMCA locations to get vital N95 masks to residents affected by harmful smoke.
Pasadena Humane, an animal control office, is assisting with animal evacuations, taking in the animals of displaced families.
The Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters Fund is supporting firefighters who have been injured while battling fires including several who have lost their own homes.
